In a stark reminder of the environmental challenges we face, a recent clean-up operation along the Hawkesbury River on the NSW Central Coast has uncovered a staggering 440 kilograms of waste. This alarming find has prompted a passionate plea from environmentalists to the government for immediate action and funding to protect our precious waterways.
Graham Johnston, the founder of Clean4Shore and a dedicated marine conservationist, has been at the forefront of this battle against pollution. On a typical day, Johnston and his team of volunteers, which includes students and participants from local drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs, can be found removing vast amounts of rubbish from the river. The haul from the Hawkesbury River, while shocking, is unfortunately not uncommon for Johnston and his crew.
The situation is dire, and the environmental impact is profound. The waste collected is not just unsightly; it poses a significant threat to wildlife and the ecosystem. The debris ranges from household items like fridges and lounges to an array of plastics and clothing. After heavy storms, the problem is exacerbated as unsecured items are swept into the water, along with boats that are abandoned and left to deteriorate.
Johnston’s initiative not only cleans up the rivers but also provides an educational experience for the volunteers involved. However, he is quick to point out that relying solely on volunteer efforts is unsustainable. The need for government intervention is critical.
Despite some financial assistance from the Central Coast Council, Johnston is calling on the state and federal governments to step up and provide the necessary funding. Without it, the impact of these clean-up efforts will remain limited. In the past year alone, with the help of 800 volunteers, Johnston’s team has removed an astonishing 42 tonnes of garbage from NSW waterways. This Herculean effort is documented and shared with the Australian Marine Data Institute, making Clean4Shore the largest contributor of such data due to their extensive fieldwork.
The message from Johnston is clear: we all have a role to play in protecting our environment. He urges Australians and visitors alike to be mindful of their waste, to avoid buying plastics, to recycle and reuse whenever possible, and to ensure our waterways are kept clean. He also encourages the public to report pollution by taking photos and sending them to organisations like Clean4Shore.
As we reflect on the ongoing challenges of keeping our waterways clean, it’s important to think about how we can all contribute. Have you ever been involved in a local clean-up effort? What ideas do you have for protecting our rivers and oceans in the long term? We’d love to hear your thoughts—join the conversation and let’s work together for a cleaner, greener Australia.
Also read: Aussie rivers get a boost: 120,000 carp removed and repurposed for a greener future